Antique French Portrait of a Woman, Gold Framed Gustave Henri Eugène Delhumeau (1836–1911)

A beautiful late 19th-century French portrait by Gustave Henri Eugène Delhumeau (1836–1911), depicting an elegantly dressed young woman against a rich, warm red background. Particularly charming is the small salamander brooch worn at her collar, a fascinating piece of jewellery associated with resilience, strength and renewal in French society of the late 19th century. The portrait is presented in an exceptional antique gilt frame with an oval opening and elaborate classical ornamentation.

Her expression is particularly appealing. There is a quiet confidence in her direct gaze, while the subtle warmth of her complexion contrasts beautifully with the deep russet-red background. The simplicity of her clothing draws attention to several carefully chosen details. A delicate earring catches the light beside her cheek, while an intriguing salamander-shaped brooch fastens her dress at the throat.

One of the most intriguing details of this portrait is the small salamander brooch worn at the sitter’s throat. The salamander occupies a fascinating place in French cultural history. Its association with the ability to withstand fire made it a powerful symbol of perseverance and strength. During the 19th century, renewed interest in Renaissance art and symbolism brought historic motifs back into French decorative arts and jewellery. It is a delightful detail that gives this already beautiful portrait an additional layer of historical interest.

Good antique condition with age-related surface character consistent with its period. The ornate antique gilt frame retains a beautiful historic patina with expected rubbing, marks, darkening and small areas of wear to the gilded decoration.

Gustave Henri Eugène Delhumeau (1836–1911)
Gustave Henri Eugène Delhumeau was born on 2 November 1836 in Moutiers-les-Mauxfaits, in the Vendée region of western France. In 1860, he entered the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he studied under Léon Cogniet (1794–1880), one of the leading French academic painters of the period. Delhumeau made his debut at the Paris Salon in 1863, establishing himself within the official artistic institutions of Second Empire France. His academic training is particularly apparent in this portrait, where the emphasis falls on the sitter’s individuality, elegant presentation and carefully observed facial features.

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Gustave Henri Eugène Delhumeau (1836–1911)
French School
Late 19th century Oil painting
Portrait of a young woman with Salamander brooch
Oval composition
Ornate antique gilt frame

Sizing Incl Frame:
Height: 16.54 inch (42cm)
Width: 13.78 inch (35cm)
Depth: 0.98 inch (2.5cm)

Sizing Painting:
Height: 12.20 inch (31cm)
Width: 9.65 inch (24.5cm)

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Antique paintings (+100 Years) are "Duty Free" within the USA, Canada, Australia and the European Union, you should NOT be charged any additional taxes for import and duty. As nearly all items in the shop are over 100 years old and classified as “antique” or “antique art” the objects are considered “Duty Free”. Amsterdam Curated will provide the appropriate certifications for the customs officials to ensure all qualified items will be shipped with this “Duty Free” classification. In the UK, it is not "FREE" but there is a reduced VAT of 5% paid at import.